Musician   |   Composer   |   Music Coach

James Manders

With many years of experience and passion for music, James has a glittering reputation as one of the best session musicians, composers and music coaches in the industry. His original music has been named ‘inspirational’, and he has earned high acclaim from clients and collaborators for his stage presence, friendly professionalism and technical work.

Trained at London College of Music, James has performed as a session guitarist, vocalist and musical director at the UK’s most prestigious venues. Appearing alongside music’s greatest artists including Mariah Carey, Tears For Fears, Lethal Bizzle, Krept & Konan, Emeli Sandé, Craig David and Bastille in live performances aired on prime time television, radio and to audiences in their thousands, James has created and maintained a stellar professional career of over 20 years. A versatile musician, James has also turned his hand to musicals and theatrical productions in the past, and is regularly booked for gigs as part of a Jazz, Rock and Pop trio and as an independent musician.

Alongside the fast-paced life of a session musician James has passed on his hard-earned skills and experience, offering coaching for aspiring musicians of all ages. Noticing a gap in musical tuition for young people, James founded Guitar in Schools, Drums in Schools and Music in Schools, organisations which have provided high quality musical tuition to children in Buckinghamshire. Having recently taken the leap to move to Cornwall, James is now taking on new students for specialist guitar and drum kit tuition.

James is also a passionate and skilled composer, creating soundtracks for television including recent work for Cavendish Music. He has also written, produced and recorded his own original songs, and co-wrote and produced EVER EP. His style masterfully blends Rock, Urban R&B, Latin Jazz and Soul influences with lyrics that come straight from the heart.

Services

COMPOSING

Having worked in TV and radio throughout his career, James is well versed in creating melodies that capture a feeling and transcend the airwaves. With recent work for Cavendish Music, James has composed soundtracks to the UK’s best loved shows.

PERFORMANCES

Available to book as a solo acoustic artist, vocalist or electric guitarist, or as part of a Jazz, Rock or Pop duo or trio. A seasoned professional with glowing testimonials from previous collaborators, James is a reliable and versatile booking for any venue or session gig.

Music Coaching

Specialist guitar and drum tuition for all ages with 20+ years of teaching and industry experience earned throughout James’s musical career. Now offering in person music coaching in North Cornwall as well as online sessions.

Testimonials

PAST Session Work

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